Ft. Jackson Niece Graduation - Road Trip Tips

dorokusai

IN September, I'm driving and bringing my In-Laws(2) with us to be at our nieces Army graduation. We're coming from MD and staying in Columbia. Any tips on places to avoid, not miss or just have to see? Or if this trip doesn't go as planned, where to plant a couple bodies? Just putting it out there, this is by no means a reality based statement. Actually, they're very nice but any small vehicle with 4 ppl for 10+ hours is bound to start murderous thoughts right? That's totally normal.....right? Right?

Mark

obieone

First of all, tell your neice, congrats, and thanks for serving.
Secondly, I don't know how long your staying in Columbia, for, but about the only thing to see here is Riverbanks Zoo.
Third, where to stay....hmmm I guess the La Quinta Inn down on Garners Ferry rd. would be as good as any. It's one or two exits down from the main gate, or the graduation gate,(sorry I can't remember) 5-10 min ride tops.
As for places to eat, theres Ruth Chris steak house downtown, Columbia; Red Robin burgers, up in Sandhills.
Theres actually quite a few nice places to eat, I just never go to them, 'cause I live out in the stix.

obieone

Following up: I just rememberd there is a Fresh Market about a mile from the main gate. IF, repeat IF they have a family picnic area on Jackson, and they have installed grills, you might want to get some steaks and have a cookout. Just pack a small cooler for the ice and food, while you sit in the 90*f heat
Fresh Market has the BEST deli and desserts in town. Top shelf everytning: beef, pork, seafood, just everything!

dorokusai

Thanks Obieone. We have lodging downtown and have made plans for the Zoo based on your recommendations. I didn't want to stay next to the base since those places are usually run down and sometimes have parties from folks on base....or at least I did when I was in. It should be a nice trip.

Gadabout

Or if this trip doesn't go as planned, where to plant a couple bodies?

If your taking the Eastern Route, The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge just south of Suffolk would fit the bill.

Been years since I was in Columbia, but a couple of things we did was:

Visit the Busted Plug, just cause it was weird and Quirky

The Blue Marlin had some pretty good seafood, but is a bit upscale. if I was going today, I would probably drop into Pawley's front porch. It was one of the stops on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. I have been to quite a few of those places, as I travel, and most have been decent and will give a good example of local Cuisine.

I usually hit Artsy stuff when traveling, and visited the Columbia Museum of Art. It has short hours, but a nice place to beat the summer heat for awhile.

Have fun on the trip, and don't forget the shovel.

Scott